New patron appointed

Mrs Frankie Oates OAM is Red Cross Umina's newly appointed patron.

This position became vacant on the death of previous patron, Mr Bill Hall.

Frankie has worked tirelessly for many charities and has especially been involved with women's welfare, children's welfare through women's refuges, according to the branch's publicity officer Ms Sylvia Timmins.

She was awarded the OAM in 1992 for this work.

"Through Red Cross, Frankie distributes Trauma Teddies and knitted caps for premature babies from Liverpool to Gosford.

"She now dedicates her work to Red Cross as she feels now, more than ever, Red Cross needs support.

"Umina branch is proud that Frankie accepted the position of patron with her usual grace and look forward to her guidance and inspiration for the future."

Sylvia Timmins, May 2.